Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

Last night, the Minister, Deputy Harney, acknowledged that we have a poor record on cervical cancer when compared with other countries. She acknowledged that the UK has had a screening programme for 20 years — our programme only commenced in September. She failed to acknowledge she has been part of a Government which for almost 12 years failed to roll out the required programme despite regular promises that it would be put in place.

Some 13 European countries have now made provision for a cervical cancer immunisation programme. Such programmes will start shortly in a number of other European countries. The Minister's cancellation of the immunisation programme announced in August will ensure that in future years we will continue to have a bad record on cervical cancer.

Having announced the immunisation programme last August, the Minister attempted last night to diminish its importance, stating that every young woman who does not get the vaccine would be offered a screening programme. The Minister of State with responsibility for children played the same game. However, screening is a second best alternative. As both Ministers and the Taoiseach should know, prevention is better than cure.

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